To some degree we should be thankful the fiscal cliff has been avoided, but we aren’t impressed. We’re too frustrated with Washington’s crisis budgeting that has become the norm recently. Remember the debt ceiling crisis of 2011? Last-minute negotiations had us all on the edge of our seat, afraid the federal government was going to shut down. Guess what? That debate is looming again with the mounting $16 trillion debt load. We can’t wait to live through that again.

The good news is that economists feel better that lawmakers reached a compromise and the economy won’t slip back into a recession. The bad news is that a 2 percent Social Security tax increase is now back upon most wage earners, an inevitability we suppose. Should we applaud Washington for swooping in and saving the day? We surely don’t feel like the day was saved; only partially rescued for now.

To read how proud some members of Congress are because they worked through these issues at the 11th hour, issues they’ve known about for 10 months by the way, is less than heartening. We could probably not name one American who is feeling any level of comfort with the direction of our country right now. And where do we place the blame? Take your pick: old politics, new politicians, Democrats or Republicans, term limits, career politicians, focus on re-election, losing touch with constituents (we like that one). You name it, it’s partially to blame.

So Washington, quit patting yourself on the back because you worked together to come to a resolution. We know there are more hurdles to overcome and we can only imagine the drama that will unfold. Do us a favor and get the work of the people done in a timely manner to avoid another crisis.

You have a lot of work to do to regain the trust of the American people. With all due respect, get busy!